12/03/2007 @ 6:00PM

In Pictures: Hidden Household Toxins

Phthalates

Phthalates are man-made chemicals commonly used in various types of plastics, including flexible kids’ toys, but they can also be found in a wide range of products like cosmetics and vinyl flooring. Though researchers have yet to determine what levels of exposure might be harmful to humans, animal studies have shown that phthalates disrupt hormones and cause birth defects in male genitalia in animals. The European Union has already banned different types of phthalates from cosmetics and toys. As an alternative to products with phthalates, try wood toys or phthalate-free cosmetics.